There are many people that suffer from overbite and underbite, both conditions that occur when the upper and lower jaws do not come together as they should. These issues would be the expertise of an orthodontist, who would be able to treat both conditions.
Should you have a bite issue, an online search will help you locate a nearby specialist.
What is Overbite?
Overbite is when the upper front teeth overlap the lower set. Invisalign, a non-invasive corrective device, might be a suitable treatment, and by consulting with a qualified orthodontist, you can learn how this can be corrected.
Potential Causes of Overbite
The majority of cases are due to infant behaviour, such as thumb sucking or the use of a pacifier, while an overbite can also be genetic, as the shape of the jawbone is slightly deformed. Early intervention is advised if a child has an overbite issue, and the orthodontist would examine the patient and discuss potential treatments. Surgery is usually the last option, which would provide a permanent solution, which is something to discuss with the orthodontist. With affordable Sydney orthodontist treatments only a few minutes away, you can get the expert opinion and he or she can make treatment suggestions.
Underbite Explained
As the name suggests, underbite is a condition where the lower front teeth protrude farther forward than the upper teeth, which creates a bulldog-type look, and it is a lot more than a cosmetic issue. This condition causes the following issues:
- Difficulty chewing food
- Speech impediment
- Jaw pain
If you, or your children have any of the above problems, it might be caused by an underbite issue, and a visit to your local orthodontist is recommended.
Possible Causes of Underbite
Underbite can be the result of a childhood habit, with thumb sucking being a common cause, as this puts pressure behind the front lower teeth, and can change their growth direction, causing a bucked-tooth appearance. Another culprit is bottle feeding for longer than necessary, which might result in the lower teeth pushing forward, and the best solution is to visit a local orthodontist, who has both the knowledge and equipment to diagnose the cause and recommend suitable treatment.
The Importance of Quick Intervention
If either under or overbite is diagnosed in a child, it is essential to start treatment as soon as possible, which will encourage the teeth and jaws to change their growth direction. If braces are recommended, the treatment would be ongoing, at least until the necessary corrections have been made, and the child would have to wear a series of devices that are designed to rectify the abnormal growth.
Any abnormality regarding your bite should be enough to send you to a qualified orthodontist, who would be able to carry out effective treatment, which might take a long time, with the orthodontist creating corrective devices that are worn by the patient. If you have a young child, don’t allow habits like thumb sucking, as this could be the outset of a bite issue. Pacifiers should be avoided too, as they put excessive pressure on the teeth, which can lead to a bite issue.